Dosa, or Dosai, regardless of your preference in naming, stands out as one of the most popular breakfast choices in Chennai. Starting as early as 6 am, this city rises before many others in India, making dosa a consistent culinary delight from morning to post-party meals. Chennai boasts a diverse range of this traditional pancake, including nutritious millet variations and ghee-laden dosas that might not get approval from your personal trainer. Below we list out a few places in Chennai that serve as excellent starting points for your dosa exploration.
Krishna Restaurant In New Woodlands Hotel
Located adjacent to the Madras Music Academy, Krishna restaurant brought the Udupi-style masala dosa to Chennai several decades ago. Frequented by Carnatic music enthusiasts and international visitors, especially during the month-long 'music season,' the masala dosa remains a constant on the menu and has retained its authentic taste over the years. The dosa is delicately crisp on the outside, generously coated with ghee, and accompanied by three different chutneys, (onion chutney recipe) along with sambar. This restaurant is situated in Mylapore.
Murugan Idli
While Chennai may not yet boast a completely authentic version of the Madurai kari dosa, characterised by its thickness and three layers filled with minced mutton and egg, Madurai's renowned Murugan Idli has made a significant presence in the city. One of its popular outlets is located near Besant Nagar. Murugan Idli is celebrated not only for its soft and fluffy idlis served with idli powder, locally known as ‘gunpowder,’ but also for its ghee podi dosa. This spiced dosa is generously sprinkled with idli powder and drenched in ghee.
Kalima's Kerala Kitchen
Nestled in the Thousand Lights area, this quaint eatery stands out as an ideal spot for indulging in delectable dosas. A definite highlight of the experience is the must-try beef dosa, where the audible crackle upon folding the thick dosa is sure to captivate your senses. The unique texture and flavours make it an irresistible treat for dosa enthusiasts seeking a delightful culinary experience.
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Eating Circles
For Chennai residents yearning for the authentic flavours of Bangalore-style masala dosa, this modern self-service eatery provides a haven. With an extensive menu featuring Karnataka tiffin and breakfast staples, it stands out as one of the few places in Chennai where you can savour delights like Maddur vada and genuine bisi bele bath. The crispy dosas, ranging from Mysore Masala dosa with generously applied chutney on the inside to a nutritious red-rice dosa, showcase the diverse Karnataka-style offerings. Additionally, the restaurant's sweet sambar is known to evoke a sense of nostalgia for Bangaloreans missing home.
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Mathsya
Mathysa, a venerable Udupi restaurant in Chennai, boasts a rich history and holds particular appeal for night owls. Renowned for its diverse array of Udupi-style dosas, the eatery offers a unique treat in the form of the 'bajjari dosa,' which is as light as air. Crafted from rice flour, this dosa is so delicate that it can be effortlessly folded into the palm of your hand, earning it the nickname "neer dosa" or water dosa. Accompanied by a simple blend of fresh coconut and jaggery, this dosa provides a delightful experience at Mathysa.
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